Thompson named interim UW System leader

Former Gov. Tommy Thompson, who led the Department of Health and Human Services under President George W. Bush, will serve as interim president of the UW System starting July 1.

According to a Friday statement, Thompson’s health policy experience will be critical as the system responds to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students will be returning to campuses this fall.

The Board of Regents won’t commence a search for a permanent president for at least a year. Last week, lone finalist Jim Johnsen, the head of the University of Alaska system, withdrew from consideration.